I've already written about the offensive behavior of the couple in front of us at the Brad Paisley concert a couple of Saturdays ago (February 25 post). Their total lack of consideration for me and others around me was an insult. Well, you can now add to that insult, an injury.
Since that night at Bridgestone arena my left knee has been hurting a lot. At times its just minor pain but when I walk or stand a lot it gets extreme. It's been 11 days and my knee pain is still a real problem.
Went to see my orthopedist today. I was examined by Dr. Birch not Dr. Patton, who did my surgery back in September. Dr. Birch told me that I aggravated my already deteriorating knee by keeping it flexed at such a drastic angle that night in Nashville.
He also told me that it will take a while to heal. I got an injection of an anti-inflammatory drug to help speed up the process.
Once again an orthopedic doctor told me that my knee is "a lot older" than I am and that a knee replacement is inevitable.
Based on the degree and frequency of the amount of pain I've had over the last year I figure I'll probably have to have my left knee replaced sometime in the next 5 years.
Putting it off as long as I can is why I'm trying to lose weight and plan on riding my bike a lot more often this summer.
But for now the most recent occurrence of acute pain (hope I'm using that term in the correct context) in my left knee is a direct result of the stress I put on it while attending the Brad Paisley concert.
That was a night that will be long remembered for many reasons. You can add the knee pain I'm having now to that list as well.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Improv In Person
Last night I had the opportunity to be in the audience for an improvisational comedy show presented by a local improv group. "Happy Gas" is the name of the 20 member troupe made up of students from Western Kentucky University. This is their "official" group photo from their Facebook page.
Improv is a unique brand of comedy. It takes talent, spontaneity, quick on your feet thinking and comedic timing.
These days most people know improv comedy from the show "Who's Line Is It Anyway" hosted by Drew Carey that ran on ABC from 1998 until 2007.
Carey and his team of "regulars" : Ryan Stiles, Wayne Brady, and Collin Mochrie showed America what improv comedy can be at it's best.
For many years improv groups throughout the country have fed the entertainment industry's need for funny people. The Groundlings out of Los Angeles, Second City in Chicago, and many New York City groups have been around for 40 or 50 years.
I loved "Who's Line"show and thrive on the idea of being funny in a "make it up as you go" manner. A lot of times that's the way I make people laugh just by spontaneously cracking jokes based on the place or situation that's happening at the time.
For a long time I have longed for the opportunity to join an improve group and try it myself. A year or two ago I found the "Happy Gas" group's website online. But I had not been able to get to where they were performing.
Last week on a midday local new show I saw a performance by Happy Gas. They were on the show to publicize their upcoming performance in a local theater. That's the show I went to see tonight.
It was held at the Phoenix Theater, a small venue, on Chestnut Street in Bowling Green. I've seen a couple of plays there before.
The performance was a lot of fun. The group "played" about half a dozen improv games that I had not seen played before. But they were all well within the realm of improv I was familiar with.
I enjoyed watching the show but the entire time I was wishing I was up there with them. I even thought of some great lines that the performers could have used.
The best one I came up with was that a young man playing the part of a talking squid in a sketch could have introduced himself to the other character as "Cal Lamari." ("calamari" is the name used in restaurants for cooked squid)
Once the show was over I wanted to stay around and talk to the kids in the group but I didn't feel very comfortable about doing it. Nothing anyone did or said made me feel that way. I just have a tendency to feel very awkward and out of place in certain social situations. This was one of them.
I came home and made a comment on the Happy Gas Facebook page about how much I enjoyed the show and that I wish I could be part of a group like theirs.
So I have now attended my first Happy Gas show. They have another one coming up on March 22. It's a show to celebrate the troupe's 15th anniversary. I just might go to that one and look for another opportunity to talk with those who get to do something I'd love to try at least once.
Improv is a unique brand of comedy. It takes talent, spontaneity, quick on your feet thinking and comedic timing.
These days most people know improv comedy from the show "Who's Line Is It Anyway" hosted by Drew Carey that ran on ABC from 1998 until 2007.
Carey and his team of "regulars" : Ryan Stiles, Wayne Brady, and Collin Mochrie showed America what improv comedy can be at it's best.
For many years improv groups throughout the country have fed the entertainment industry's need for funny people. The Groundlings out of Los Angeles, Second City in Chicago, and many New York City groups have been around for 40 or 50 years.
I loved "Who's Line"show and thrive on the idea of being funny in a "make it up as you go" manner. A lot of times that's the way I make people laugh just by spontaneously cracking jokes based on the place or situation that's happening at the time.
For a long time I have longed for the opportunity to join an improve group and try it myself. A year or two ago I found the "Happy Gas" group's website online. But I had not been able to get to where they were performing.
Last week on a midday local new show I saw a performance by Happy Gas. They were on the show to publicize their upcoming performance in a local theater. That's the show I went to see tonight.
It was held at the Phoenix Theater, a small venue, on Chestnut Street in Bowling Green. I've seen a couple of plays there before.
The performance was a lot of fun. The group "played" about half a dozen improv games that I had not seen played before. But they were all well within the realm of improv I was familiar with.
I enjoyed watching the show but the entire time I was wishing I was up there with them. I even thought of some great lines that the performers could have used.
The best one I came up with was that a young man playing the part of a talking squid in a sketch could have introduced himself to the other character as "Cal Lamari." ("calamari" is the name used in restaurants for cooked squid)
Once the show was over I wanted to stay around and talk to the kids in the group but I didn't feel very comfortable about doing it. Nothing anyone did or said made me feel that way. I just have a tendency to feel very awkward and out of place in certain social situations. This was one of them.
I came home and made a comment on the Happy Gas Facebook page about how much I enjoyed the show and that I wish I could be part of a group like theirs.
So I have now attended my first Happy Gas show. They have another one coming up on March 22. It's a show to celebrate the troupe's 15th anniversary. I just might go to that one and look for another opportunity to talk with those who get to do something I'd love to try at least once.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
TWIL #2
It's been a little more than 7 days but Here's my second offering of "This Week In Lego."Just a few things on the agenda for this edition of TWIL.
Here's the 2nd of the trio of models I am building out of Lego Creator set # 5764. This one is called "Lasercat". When I first finished putting it together I didn't like it. But because I take pictures of all my builds I set Lasercat up to take some shots. Here's one of them.
I think it shows that the model is nothing special. But I have another picture that actually gives him an animated look that reminds me of the very likable Pixar character WALL*E. See if you agree.
I was just trying to get views of the model at different angles but I inadvertently posed Lasercat in a way that gives him personality. Now I really like Lasercat.
This past weekend I purchased my 3rd Lego display case made specifically for mini-figures. This inspired me to get out my entire mini-figure collection and set it up in my living room to enjoy. Here they are all 100 of them.
Come visit me and you can see them in person. Now there are a lot of cool mini-figures including the latest series from the Lego Movie. But without a doubt my favorite is the one that's was given to me by my friends, Mark and Patty
They saw it in the gift shop at the Louisville Slugger Museum and bought it for me. Ironically it's not a Lego figure. It's made by a company called "Oyo." Modeled after one of my all time favorite New York Yankees this is the mini-figure of Derek Jeter.
The last item on my TWIL report for today is a decision that will give me something to write about in my next report.
Last Sunday I purchased tickets to a Lego expo taking place in Indianapolis, Indiana this coming Saturday. My son, Michael will be going with me. Its not an official Lego sponsored event. But is organized by an AFOL club (Adult Fans Of Lego) called Brick World. You can find out more about that organization and their activities through this link.
Brick World Website
I'm excited about going because everyone there will be a Lego enthusiast who loves the hobby as much as I do.
I'm sure the event will have plenty of opportunities for pictures and stories I can post next week.
That's it for TWIL this time. See you again soon with more on the expo in Indianapolis.
Here's the 2nd of the trio of models I am building out of Lego Creator set # 5764. This one is called "Lasercat". When I first finished putting it together I didn't like it. But because I take pictures of all my builds I set Lasercat up to take some shots. Here's one of them.
I think it shows that the model is nothing special. But I have another picture that actually gives him an animated look that reminds me of the very likable Pixar character WALL*E. See if you agree.
I was just trying to get views of the model at different angles but I inadvertently posed Lasercat in a way that gives him personality. Now I really like Lasercat.
This past weekend I purchased my 3rd Lego display case made specifically for mini-figures. This inspired me to get out my entire mini-figure collection and set it up in my living room to enjoy. Here they are all 100 of them.
Come visit me and you can see them in person. Now there are a lot of cool mini-figures including the latest series from the Lego Movie. But without a doubt my favorite is the one that's was given to me by my friends, Mark and Patty
They saw it in the gift shop at the Louisville Slugger Museum and bought it for me. Ironically it's not a Lego figure. It's made by a company called "Oyo." Modeled after one of my all time favorite New York Yankees this is the mini-figure of Derek Jeter.
The last item on my TWIL report for today is a decision that will give me something to write about in my next report.
Last Sunday I purchased tickets to a Lego expo taking place in Indianapolis, Indiana this coming Saturday. My son, Michael will be going with me. Its not an official Lego sponsored event. But is organized by an AFOL club (Adult Fans Of Lego) called Brick World. You can find out more about that organization and their activities through this link.
Brick World Website
I'm excited about going because everyone there will be a Lego enthusiast who loves the hobby as much as I do.
I'm sure the event will have plenty of opportunities for pictures and stories I can post next week.
That's it for TWIL this time. See you again soon with more on the expo in Indianapolis.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
The One About The Winter Weather
It's only been a little over 2 months that that I've been blogging on a daily basis. I've already mentioned several times that there are days you have to really look for something to write about. Other days the subject just comes right up to your front door.
For today's post that last part is true, literally. Up until yesterday, all weather systems that came through our part of Kentucky this season had only given us small amounts of frozen precipitation or lots of rain. But March managed to live up to it's "comes in like a lion" reputation when Winter finally managed to hit us with some significant measurable accumulation.
A winter storm that formed on the west coast on Friday and traveled quickly across the country dumped about 4 inches of sleet and snow on us here in South Central Kentucky starting late Sunday afternoon until mid morning on Monday.
It is the most significant storm to hit Warren county, so far, this year. Local government offices issued warnings to stay off the streets because travel conditions were hazardous.
The road conditions caused all school systems to close as well as a lot of stores and businesses. Even Western Kentucky University cancelled classes. According to my wife, that is something that doesn't happen very often.
Paula stayed home; setting up a temporary office at our kitchen table so she could work from the house.
Because the schools were closed, I didn't have to go to work in the afternoon either. So we had a day at home together.
Paula took some time in the morning to take some pictures of our yard. She's my guest photographer for today. Here's what she posted on Facebook.
Now I know that those of you reading this who live anywhere north of us are reading this post and yelling "SHUT UP" at your computer screen.
I realize that a lof of you live in areas that have had record breaking amounts of snow and freezing temperatures this winter. For you just 4 inches of accumulation would be easy to handle at this point. But for us here this storm has had the biggest effect on the area than any other this winter.
Yes, discussions about the weather are very boring and sometimes a sign that there's nothing more interesting to talk about. But this storm that the weather forecasters finally predicted correctly was definitely a factor for me yesterday.
That makes it a viable resource for a blog post. And like I said it literally came to my front door. It's kind of ironic after the two previous posts I wrote cursing the weather that this time I have to say, "Thanks Winter."
For today's post that last part is true, literally. Up until yesterday, all weather systems that came through our part of Kentucky this season had only given us small amounts of frozen precipitation or lots of rain. But March managed to live up to it's "comes in like a lion" reputation when Winter finally managed to hit us with some significant measurable accumulation.
A winter storm that formed on the west coast on Friday and traveled quickly across the country dumped about 4 inches of sleet and snow on us here in South Central Kentucky starting late Sunday afternoon until mid morning on Monday.
It is the most significant storm to hit Warren county, so far, this year. Local government offices issued warnings to stay off the streets because travel conditions were hazardous.
The road conditions caused all school systems to close as well as a lot of stores and businesses. Even Western Kentucky University cancelled classes. According to my wife, that is something that doesn't happen very often.
Paula stayed home; setting up a temporary office at our kitchen table so she could work from the house.
Because the schools were closed, I didn't have to go to work in the afternoon either. So we had a day at home together.
Paula took some time in the morning to take some pictures of our yard. She's my guest photographer for today. Here's what she posted on Facebook.
Now I know that those of you reading this who live anywhere north of us are reading this post and yelling "SHUT UP" at your computer screen.
I realize that a lof of you live in areas that have had record breaking amounts of snow and freezing temperatures this winter. For you just 4 inches of accumulation would be easy to handle at this point. But for us here this storm has had the biggest effect on the area than any other this winter.
Yes, discussions about the weather are very boring and sometimes a sign that there's nothing more interesting to talk about. But this storm that the weather forecasters finally predicted correctly was definitely a factor for me yesterday.
That makes it a viable resource for a blog post. And like I said it literally came to my front door. It's kind of ironic after the two previous posts I wrote cursing the weather that this time I have to say, "Thanks Winter."
Monday, March 3, 2014
The Ultimate In "Paying It Forward"
The origin of this post has it's place in the opening moments of the Brad Paisley concert I wrote about early last week.
Paisley was on stage singing what he said he considers his theme song entitled "This Is Country Music". It's about the unique difference and heritage of that genre.
Here's a link to the You Tube video of Paisley's performance of the song at the 2010 CMA Awards. The song starts about 35 seconds into the video.
This Is Country Music-Brad Paisley-2010 CMA Awards
I am very familiar with this song but for some reason on that night these words hit me in a new way.
My son, James, served in Iraq a couple of years ago. He was even injured during his time there. Had circumstances that caused his injury been different the lines in the song could have very well applied to our family. By God's grace they do not.
My mind then jumped to James and the life he has now; specifically how much his daughter adores him. She is a real "daddy's girl". A sobering thought came to me. If James had never come back from Iraq there would be no Aria in our lives.
I said a silent "thank you" to God for protecting James, bringing him back to us and for blessing us with our granddaughter.
Quickly my mind jumped to those military family members who weren't so lucky. I was saddened by the thought that because of their ultimate sacrifice some young men never had the chance to become anyone's daddy.
I thought of the many families that will never have the chance to be blessed by a child because their soldier lost his or her life.
It really made me sad but made the treasure of having Aria in my life even more special to me.
Now that night I only thought of the sadness for the children that would never be born. But yesterday I saw a story on the CBS Sunday Morning magazine program that gave me a new perspective on a different aspect of the sacrifice of the soldiers and their families. The story was about a young man named Miles Eckhart.
Learning about this exceptional young man's actions touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Rather than try and write his story, here's a link to the CBS news story that aired on "Sunday Morning."
The Ultimate In Paying It Forward
If you are not touched by this story then you better make sure you have a pulse because you have no heart.
Although it seems like a fictional story out of Hollywood; it's a true story that happened in Ohio.
There's not much more I can write after this. After mentioning my thoughts about "This Is Country Music" to my wife a couple of days after the concert I pretty much dismissed the moment.
But now as the matter has been brought once again to my attention; perhaps now instead of just feeling sorry for those children never born I should look more to helping those who have been left alone.
Find a way to pay it forward just like Miles Eckhart.
Paisley was on stage singing what he said he considers his theme song entitled "This Is Country Music". It's about the unique difference and heritage of that genre.
Here's a link to the You Tube video of Paisley's performance of the song at the 2010 CMA Awards. The song starts about 35 seconds into the video.
This Is Country Music-Brad Paisley-2010 CMA Awards
I am very familiar with this song but for some reason on that night these words hit me in a new way.
Are you haunted by the echo of your mother on the phone.
Cryin' as she tells you that your brother is not coming home.
And if there's anyone who still has pride
and the memory of those that died
defending the old red, white, and blue.
and the memory of those that died
defending the old red, white, and blue.
This is country music. We do.
My son, James, served in Iraq a couple of years ago. He was even injured during his time there. Had circumstances that caused his injury been different the lines in the song could have very well applied to our family. By God's grace they do not.
My mind then jumped to James and the life he has now; specifically how much his daughter adores him. She is a real "daddy's girl". A sobering thought came to me. If James had never come back from Iraq there would be no Aria in our lives.
I said a silent "thank you" to God for protecting James, bringing him back to us and for blessing us with our granddaughter.
Quickly my mind jumped to those military family members who weren't so lucky. I was saddened by the thought that because of their ultimate sacrifice some young men never had the chance to become anyone's daddy.
I thought of the many families that will never have the chance to be blessed by a child because their soldier lost his or her life.
It really made me sad but made the treasure of having Aria in my life even more special to me.
Now that night I only thought of the sadness for the children that would never be born. But yesterday I saw a story on the CBS Sunday Morning magazine program that gave me a new perspective on a different aspect of the sacrifice of the soldiers and their families. The story was about a young man named Miles Eckhart.
Learning about this exceptional young man's actions touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Rather than try and write his story, here's a link to the CBS news story that aired on "Sunday Morning."
The Ultimate In Paying It Forward
If you are not touched by this story then you better make sure you have a pulse because you have no heart.
Although it seems like a fictional story out of Hollywood; it's a true story that happened in Ohio.
There's not much more I can write after this. After mentioning my thoughts about "This Is Country Music" to my wife a couple of days after the concert I pretty much dismissed the moment.
But now as the matter has been brought once again to my attention; perhaps now instead of just feeling sorry for those children never born I should look more to helping those who have been left alone.
Find a way to pay it forward just like Miles Eckhart.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
If I Picked The Winners
Tonight is the biggest night of the year in Hollywood. It could very well be considered entertainment's Superbowl.
This is the first Oscar ceremony since the death of the movie critic, Roger Ebert. When he and Gene Siskel still had their movie review show, they hosted a "If We Picked The Oscars" special. I watched it every year.
As a tribute to the two of them I now present today's blog post with the same exact premise. I am going to reveal who I would choose based on my movie experiences from this past year.
Also I will include my predictions for whom I think academy voters have chosen to receive the coveted gold statue. I will be doing this for the 6 major categories.
In addition I will be making some "wish picks." Nominees I want to win so much I can't be objective in their respective categories.
So here I go.....If I Picked The Winners
Best Supporting Actress
I have only seen the performances of 2 of the 5 nominees. So for me it's a two actress race. So this choice is easy.
My Winner: Jennifer Lawrence
She's just a great actress and deserves to win based on the contrast between her "American Hustle" character and Katnis from the "Hunger Games" films.
My Prediction: Jennifer Lawrence
This prediction is based on the notion that Ms. Lawrence right now is one of the darlings of the academy voters. June Squibb is an older actress nominated for the first time but is not known well enough to win. Her honor is just being nominated. I like my prediction but Sally Hawkins could be a surprise winner.
Best Supporting Actor
Contrary to the Supporting Actress category I've seen all but one of the performances nominated, that omission would be Jared Leto in "Dallas Buyer's Club."
My Winner: Barkhad Abdi
For a native Somalian living in Minneapolis, Minnesota at the time he was cast, this actor was outstanding in his first film, "Captain Philips". Given the extremely difficult task of acting next to 2 time Oscar winner, Tom Hanks, Abdi was up to it. He deserves to win but...
My Prediction: Jared Leto
Leto's performance is the only one I haven't seen. But from everything I've read he is the odds on favorite. In a year where the political climate in Hollywood is focused on gay rights and same sex marriage Leto's type of role in "The Dallas Buyer's Club" is sure to be his ticket to Oscar gold.
One final note on this category. In 2012 I couldn't believe that Jonah Hill was nominated in this same category for "Moneyball." As far as I was concerned he did nothing in that awful movie worthy of even being considered for an Oscar.
Now Hill is nominated again. I don't like Hill at all. I don't think he can act his way out of a traffic ticket. But in "Wolf of Wall Street", he did give his director, Martin Scorsese, more of a performance than I ever thought he was capable of. But that's all moot because he doesn't stand a chance of winning. But it really gets on my nerves that he is even in the conversation.
Best Actress
Another 2 out of 5 situation as far as seeing performances is concerned. Even though I hated the movie I can't ignore the role Amy Adams played in "American Hustle". She's my favorite out of the 5 nominees.
My Winner: Amy Adams
My Prediction: Cate Blanchette
From all the buzz this is the closest thing to a sure thing on Oscar night. Because of my limited knowledge I have to go with the media consensus on this one.
Best Actor
"The Wolf Of Wall Street" is the most outrageous display of debauchery I've ever seen on a movie screen. It's a bizaro world on steroids, or should I say "cocaine". But for me it's like a cinematic car wreck. I was drawn to it. And even though just a few minutes into the picture, when I realized it was a disaster, I just couldn't look away. Of the 3 nominated performances I've seen from this category, Leonard DeCaprio deserves this award.
He is Jordan Belfore in all his money swindling, drug addicted, sex crazed, criminally liable, morally bankrupt glory. He's probably not going to win but at least he has a Golden Globe.
My Winner: Leonardo DeCaprio
My Prediction: Matthew McConaughey
McConaughey has been around a long time and has paid his dues. I felt that he should have at least been nominated for "The Lincoln Lawyer" a couple of years ago.
But now that he is nominated he will win. Because he underwent such a drastic physical change and is the lead in a movie that's loosely linked with gay rights. (As I already discussed, a political "hot button" championed by actors these days) McConaughey will rewarded with his own gold statue.
Best Director
Who told the best story in the best way? That's the question I believe the academy member should ask when voting for the "best director" award.
I have seen the work 4 of the 5 nominated films. I have not seen "Nebraska". With few exceptions in recent years, the winner of this award and the winner of the "Best Picture" award were linked.
I've already stated a lot of the reasons for my choice in this category.
"Wolf Of Wall Street" is the best, most outrageous, awful movie I've seen in a long time. I'll state again that the "car wreck" analogy is so appropriate. Based on his effort to get the story of Jordan Belfore to the screen the way he did, I've chosen my winner.
He's Hollywood royalty and one of the greatest directors in the history of the motion pictures.
My Winner: Martin Scorsese
My Prediction: Alfonzo Cuaron
I think that more than in most recent years there the winning director will be chosen because votes for others will cancel each other out. I think the votes for the directors of "12 Years A Slave" and "American Hustle" will be split enough so that the director of "Gravity" will come out the winner.
Best Picture
For me this choice was a process of elimination that reminds me of the way Bill Murray used to make his predictions on Saturday Night Live back in the 70's.
"Dallas Buyer's Club", "Her", "Philomena", and "Nebraska" I haven't seen. The "Best Picture" winner could be among the but, I can't pick them.
"Captain Phillips," was good but it was a little long and got a bit monotonous toward the end. The subplot of the military involvement seemed forced. Good individual performances but not the best picture.
I've already praised efforts of the director and lead actor in "Wolf of Wall Street" to excess. However, I can't give the movie itself any award that has the word "best" associated with it. The part of my conscience that continuously protested the fact that I remained in the theater for the whole movie won't let me.
I can't say how much I hated "American Hustle." I thought the story was boring and the characters were dull. It was one of those movies that I kept hoping would get better but it never did.
"Gravity" took one of my favorite actresses, Sandra Bullock, one of the subjects that most fascinates me, space exploration, and a story of the worst possible scenario that could happen in outer space, used a ton of ground-breaking CG and special effects and still, somehow managed to make a very boring picture.
The movie was a combination of two Tom Hanks movies: "Castaway" and "Apollo 13" but it didn't come close to being as entertaining as either of them.
So for me it comes down to one movie. I found myself taken back and astounded the story the film is based on is true. I can't imagine living in a world where such a thing could have happened.
But the movie puts you in the middle of such a world and effectively tells the true story. And it does so in an honest way that compels empathy for the main characters but doesn't force it out of you.
The individual performances by the lead and supporting cast are outstanding. All 3 of the actors nominated for their roles deserve to win their awards.
So because "Now You See Me" was not nominated, my pick for the "Best Picture" is...
My Winner: 12 Years A Slave
My Prediction: Gravity
This year there are 9 nominees. I think that they can be divided into 3 levels. The nomination of "Nebraska", "Her", and "Philomena" is as far as academy members are willing to go to acknowledge that these movies deserved to be named among the this year's outstanding films but they are not the best.
"Captian Phillips, "Wolf Of Wall Street", and "Dallas Buyers Club" are nominated because they are films that could have very easily been the best picture if the next level of nominees were not involved. The message in their being honored in this category is "you're a great movie but there was better."
Finally, on the third level of the "Best Picture" nominees, "Gravity", "American Hustle", and "12 Years A Slave" are all films that deserve the Oscar. But once again, the distribution of the votes among the nominees will be split. Because I believe there will be a block of voters that will be divided between the other two, "Gravity" will be the last picture standing and thus the winner.
So there are my predictions for the top 6 categories. There are other awards that are kind of important but I'll just sit back and just enjoy watching who wins those. I'm going to be judging my prognostication ability based on my predictions not my choices. I'll let you know how I do.
I know this has been a long post but I can't end an article about the Oscars without mentioning the main reason I watch the show. I want to see how Disney does.
So here are the categories that I am rooting for a nominee with ties Disney to win.
Best Original Song: Let It Go
Like "Frozen", the movie it's from "Let It Go" has taken on a life of it's own. It's been sung all over the place. Idina Manzel, who sang it in the movie, will be performing it live on the show. If it doesn't win the best song Oscar I will be surprised.
Best Animated Feature
"Frozen" is the 3rd highest grossing animated film of all time world wide. It's a cultural and box office juggernaut. Over 3 months after it's release it is still in theaters. It ranked 8th at the box office last weekend bringing in over $4 million in it's 14th week of release. How can it not win the Oscar?
BTW I haven't seen any of the other nominees; not even "The Croods" or "Despicable Me 2." But even if I did I would still be rooting for "Frozen."
Best Animated Short
Again have not seen any of the nominees except the Disney film. "Get A Horse" is such an clever and innovative mix of classic old school and new animation that just like "Paper Man" last year it almost demands the Oscar. If any other short wins it will be a miscarriage of justice.
Best Original Score
Although it was expected to get some nominations for it's production or acting performances a nomination the "Best Original Score" category is the only one "Saving Mr. Banks" received.
Although I really didn't care the movie it was a significant release for the Disney company at the end of 2013. I have to root for it to win.
So those my Oscar picks and predictions for this year. Finding out how right they are is the main reason I watch each year. Being part of the universal conversation the on Monday is another reason.
I don't, however, care at all for the red carpet or fashion show part of the whole Oscar ordeal. There's only dress anyone's ever worn to the Oscars, that I even has a place in my long term memory. It's the one made of 254 American Express cards that costume designer, Lizzy Gardner wore in 1995. (Google it and you'll see why). I just watch the awards ceremony. There's always the possibility that you will see pop culture history as it happens.
It will be an interesting show this year. I like this year's host, Ellen Degeneres, a lot. From watching her talk show I know she's very comfortable around people in the movie industry.
As every year I look forward to the "In Memoriam" part of the show. Most notable on this year's list will include Paul Walker and James Gandolfini. It's always special to see the academy honor those the movie industry has lost over the last year.
As promised I will report how well I did on my predictions this coming week.
This is the first Oscar ceremony since the death of the movie critic, Roger Ebert. When he and Gene Siskel still had their movie review show, they hosted a "If We Picked The Oscars" special. I watched it every year.
As a tribute to the two of them I now present today's blog post with the same exact premise. I am going to reveal who I would choose based on my movie experiences from this past year.
Also I will include my predictions for whom I think academy voters have chosen to receive the coveted gold statue. I will be doing this for the 6 major categories.
In addition I will be making some "wish picks." Nominees I want to win so much I can't be objective in their respective categories.
So here I go.....If I Picked The Winners
Best Supporting Actress
I have only seen the performances of 2 of the 5 nominees. So for me it's a two actress race. So this choice is easy.
My Winner: Jennifer Lawrence
She's just a great actress and deserves to win based on the contrast between her "American Hustle" character and Katnis from the "Hunger Games" films.
My Prediction: Jennifer Lawrence
This prediction is based on the notion that Ms. Lawrence right now is one of the darlings of the academy voters. June Squibb is an older actress nominated for the first time but is not known well enough to win. Her honor is just being nominated. I like my prediction but Sally Hawkins could be a surprise winner.
Best Supporting Actor
Contrary to the Supporting Actress category I've seen all but one of the performances nominated, that omission would be Jared Leto in "Dallas Buyer's Club."
My Winner: Barkhad Abdi
For a native Somalian living in Minneapolis, Minnesota at the time he was cast, this actor was outstanding in his first film, "Captain Philips". Given the extremely difficult task of acting next to 2 time Oscar winner, Tom Hanks, Abdi was up to it. He deserves to win but...
My Prediction: Jared Leto
Leto's performance is the only one I haven't seen. But from everything I've read he is the odds on favorite. In a year where the political climate in Hollywood is focused on gay rights and same sex marriage Leto's type of role in "The Dallas Buyer's Club" is sure to be his ticket to Oscar gold.
One final note on this category. In 2012 I couldn't believe that Jonah Hill was nominated in this same category for "Moneyball." As far as I was concerned he did nothing in that awful movie worthy of even being considered for an Oscar.
Now Hill is nominated again. I don't like Hill at all. I don't think he can act his way out of a traffic ticket. But in "Wolf of Wall Street", he did give his director, Martin Scorsese, more of a performance than I ever thought he was capable of. But that's all moot because he doesn't stand a chance of winning. But it really gets on my nerves that he is even in the conversation.
Best Actress
Another 2 out of 5 situation as far as seeing performances is concerned. Even though I hated the movie I can't ignore the role Amy Adams played in "American Hustle". She's my favorite out of the 5 nominees.
My Winner: Amy Adams
My Prediction: Cate Blanchette
From all the buzz this is the closest thing to a sure thing on Oscar night. Because of my limited knowledge I have to go with the media consensus on this one.
Best Actor
"The Wolf Of Wall Street" is the most outrageous display of debauchery I've ever seen on a movie screen. It's a bizaro world on steroids, or should I say "cocaine". But for me it's like a cinematic car wreck. I was drawn to it. And even though just a few minutes into the picture, when I realized it was a disaster, I just couldn't look away. Of the 3 nominated performances I've seen from this category, Leonard DeCaprio deserves this award.
He is Jordan Belfore in all his money swindling, drug addicted, sex crazed, criminally liable, morally bankrupt glory. He's probably not going to win but at least he has a Golden Globe.
My Winner: Leonardo DeCaprio
My Prediction: Matthew McConaughey
McConaughey has been around a long time and has paid his dues. I felt that he should have at least been nominated for "The Lincoln Lawyer" a couple of years ago.
But now that he is nominated he will win. Because he underwent such a drastic physical change and is the lead in a movie that's loosely linked with gay rights. (As I already discussed, a political "hot button" championed by actors these days) McConaughey will rewarded with his own gold statue.
Best Director
Who told the best story in the best way? That's the question I believe the academy member should ask when voting for the "best director" award.
I have seen the work 4 of the 5 nominated films. I have not seen "Nebraska". With few exceptions in recent years, the winner of this award and the winner of the "Best Picture" award were linked.
I've already stated a lot of the reasons for my choice in this category.
"Wolf Of Wall Street" is the best, most outrageous, awful movie I've seen in a long time. I'll state again that the "car wreck" analogy is so appropriate. Based on his effort to get the story of Jordan Belfore to the screen the way he did, I've chosen my winner.
He's Hollywood royalty and one of the greatest directors in the history of the motion pictures.
My Winner: Martin Scorsese
My Prediction: Alfonzo Cuaron
I think that more than in most recent years there the winning director will be chosen because votes for others will cancel each other out. I think the votes for the directors of "12 Years A Slave" and "American Hustle" will be split enough so that the director of "Gravity" will come out the winner.
Best Picture
For me this choice was a process of elimination that reminds me of the way Bill Murray used to make his predictions on Saturday Night Live back in the 70's.
"Dallas Buyer's Club", "Her", "Philomena", and "Nebraska" I haven't seen. The "Best Picture" winner could be among the but, I can't pick them.
"Captain Phillips," was good but it was a little long and got a bit monotonous toward the end. The subplot of the military involvement seemed forced. Good individual performances but not the best picture.
I've already praised efforts of the director and lead actor in "Wolf of Wall Street" to excess. However, I can't give the movie itself any award that has the word "best" associated with it. The part of my conscience that continuously protested the fact that I remained in the theater for the whole movie won't let me.
I can't say how much I hated "American Hustle." I thought the story was boring and the characters were dull. It was one of those movies that I kept hoping would get better but it never did.
"Gravity" took one of my favorite actresses, Sandra Bullock, one of the subjects that most fascinates me, space exploration, and a story of the worst possible scenario that could happen in outer space, used a ton of ground-breaking CG and special effects and still, somehow managed to make a very boring picture.
The movie was a combination of two Tom Hanks movies: "Castaway" and "Apollo 13" but it didn't come close to being as entertaining as either of them.
So for me it comes down to one movie. I found myself taken back and astounded the story the film is based on is true. I can't imagine living in a world where such a thing could have happened.
But the movie puts you in the middle of such a world and effectively tells the true story. And it does so in an honest way that compels empathy for the main characters but doesn't force it out of you.
The individual performances by the lead and supporting cast are outstanding. All 3 of the actors nominated for their roles deserve to win their awards.
So because "Now You See Me" was not nominated, my pick for the "Best Picture" is...
My Winner: 12 Years A Slave
My Prediction: Gravity
This year there are 9 nominees. I think that they can be divided into 3 levels. The nomination of "Nebraska", "Her", and "Philomena" is as far as academy members are willing to go to acknowledge that these movies deserved to be named among the this year's outstanding films but they are not the best.
"Captian Phillips, "Wolf Of Wall Street", and "Dallas Buyers Club" are nominated because they are films that could have very easily been the best picture if the next level of nominees were not involved. The message in their being honored in this category is "you're a great movie but there was better."
Finally, on the third level of the "Best Picture" nominees, "Gravity", "American Hustle", and "12 Years A Slave" are all films that deserve the Oscar. But once again, the distribution of the votes among the nominees will be split. Because I believe there will be a block of voters that will be divided between the other two, "Gravity" will be the last picture standing and thus the winner.
So there are my predictions for the top 6 categories. There are other awards that are kind of important but I'll just sit back and just enjoy watching who wins those. I'm going to be judging my prognostication ability based on my predictions not my choices. I'll let you know how I do.
I know this has been a long post but I can't end an article about the Oscars without mentioning the main reason I watch the show. I want to see how Disney does.
So here are the categories that I am rooting for a nominee with ties Disney to win.
Best Original Song: Let It Go
Like "Frozen", the movie it's from "Let It Go" has taken on a life of it's own. It's been sung all over the place. Idina Manzel, who sang it in the movie, will be performing it live on the show. If it doesn't win the best song Oscar I will be surprised.
Best Animated Feature
"Frozen" is the 3rd highest grossing animated film of all time world wide. It's a cultural and box office juggernaut. Over 3 months after it's release it is still in theaters. It ranked 8th at the box office last weekend bringing in over $4 million in it's 14th week of release. How can it not win the Oscar?
BTW I haven't seen any of the other nominees; not even "The Croods" or "Despicable Me 2." But even if I did I would still be rooting for "Frozen."
Best Animated Short
Again have not seen any of the nominees except the Disney film. "Get A Horse" is such an clever and innovative mix of classic old school and new animation that just like "Paper Man" last year it almost demands the Oscar. If any other short wins it will be a miscarriage of justice.
Best Original Score
Although it was expected to get some nominations for it's production or acting performances a nomination the "Best Original Score" category is the only one "Saving Mr. Banks" received.
Although I really didn't care the movie it was a significant release for the Disney company at the end of 2013. I have to root for it to win.
So those my Oscar picks and predictions for this year. Finding out how right they are is the main reason I watch each year. Being part of the universal conversation the on Monday is another reason.
I don't, however, care at all for the red carpet or fashion show part of the whole Oscar ordeal. There's only dress anyone's ever worn to the Oscars, that I even has a place in my long term memory. It's the one made of 254 American Express cards that costume designer, Lizzy Gardner wore in 1995. (Google it and you'll see why). I just watch the awards ceremony. There's always the possibility that you will see pop culture history as it happens.
It will be an interesting show this year. I like this year's host, Ellen Degeneres, a lot. From watching her talk show I know she's very comfortable around people in the movie industry.
As every year I look forward to the "In Memoriam" part of the show. Most notable on this year's list will include Paul Walker and James Gandolfini. It's always special to see the academy honor those the movie industry has lost over the last year.
As promised I will report how well I did on my predictions this coming week.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Hobby Helper
This past week was one that gave me an opportunity to do something most people only wish they could do. Use their hobbies in a socially redeeming way.
On Wednesday and Friday mornings I went to a local elementary school to help a friend of mine who is a science teacher with an unique class project.
She attends my church and is a Facebook friend. She knows from my FB page that I am an experienced Lego builder.
A few months ago she asked me if I would be willing to help her teach a class utilizing some Lego kits she purchased from their website. They were supposed to help her students learn about the interaction between computers and machines.
On Wednesday I went to her classroom and taught an introduction class for a group of twelve 5th graders. However in this first session, we didn't even touch the Lego kits.
What I did was engage them in making the connection between building with Lego bricks and creating new and innovative products for areas such as: the medical field, US military and space programs, the theme park entertainment industry, and consumer products.
I used Walt Disney as an example of someone who used his imagination and made his dreams a reality. I explained that Mr. Disney believed that if you could dream it you could do it and continuously worked to always keep moving forward.
From what my friend told me on FB later on Wednesday night, the kids really liked the class and are excited about the next one scheduled for next Wednesday.
On Friday, I did the same type of class with a group of 6th graders. I took a little different avenue them which included having the kids break up into groups and work together to create something original from random Lego bricks.
We didn't get that part finished before we had to end the class. But it left us with an exciting place to pick up next time.
Later on Wednesday afternoon, I went to work at my new job like I have for the last 2 weeks. But today was different. I took my ukulele with me.
I played it twice during the after school session. The first time was in the classroom with just the 2nd and 3rd grade students.
Later, in the school's gym with all the kids in the program sitting on the floor I sat on the edge of the stage and led them in a sing along.
I made up a song about the after school program to the tune of "If You're Happy and You Know It, Clap Your Hands." I had to employ a little of my improvisational skills but it worked out. They all liked it. I think I even made an impression on my co-workers and supervisor.
It's hard to believe but I took a pair of activities I do, basically, just for fun and used them as tools to help me with something I've been doing for a long time; teaching and entertaining kids.
I plan on using my knowledge and experience with Lego bricks as well as my very remedial ability to play the ukulele even more in the future. Who knows what letting others see my talent will lead to. I sincerely mean it when I say this: That's something only God knows.
On Wednesday and Friday mornings I went to a local elementary school to help a friend of mine who is a science teacher with an unique class project.
She attends my church and is a Facebook friend. She knows from my FB page that I am an experienced Lego builder.
A few months ago she asked me if I would be willing to help her teach a class utilizing some Lego kits she purchased from their website. They were supposed to help her students learn about the interaction between computers and machines.
On Wednesday I went to her classroom and taught an introduction class for a group of twelve 5th graders. However in this first session, we didn't even touch the Lego kits.
What I did was engage them in making the connection between building with Lego bricks and creating new and innovative products for areas such as: the medical field, US military and space programs, the theme park entertainment industry, and consumer products.
I used Walt Disney as an example of someone who used his imagination and made his dreams a reality. I explained that Mr. Disney believed that if you could dream it you could do it and continuously worked to always keep moving forward.
From what my friend told me on FB later on Wednesday night, the kids really liked the class and are excited about the next one scheduled for next Wednesday.
On Friday, I did the same type of class with a group of 6th graders. I took a little different avenue them which included having the kids break up into groups and work together to create something original from random Lego bricks.
We didn't get that part finished before we had to end the class. But it left us with an exciting place to pick up next time.
Later on Wednesday afternoon, I went to work at my new job like I have for the last 2 weeks. But today was different. I took my ukulele with me.
I played it twice during the after school session. The first time was in the classroom with just the 2nd and 3rd grade students.
Later, in the school's gym with all the kids in the program sitting on the floor I sat on the edge of the stage and led them in a sing along.
I made up a song about the after school program to the tune of "If You're Happy and You Know It, Clap Your Hands." I had to employ a little of my improvisational skills but it worked out. They all liked it. I think I even made an impression on my co-workers and supervisor.
It's hard to believe but I took a pair of activities I do, basically, just for fun and used them as tools to help me with something I've been doing for a long time; teaching and entertaining kids.
I plan on using my knowledge and experience with Lego bricks as well as my very remedial ability to play the ukulele even more in the future. Who knows what letting others see my talent will lead to. I sincerely mean it when I say this: That's something only God knows.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)